Trumpetfishes

Chinese trumpetfish (Aulostomus chinensis)

The Chinese trumpetfish (Aulostomus chinensis) belongs to the family Aulostomidae (trumpetfishes) and is found in the Red Sea, with a wider Indo-Pacific range. It is a carnivore and usually seen in groups or alone. It reaches about 60 cm and is found at 1–50 m depth. IUCN conservation status: Least Concern. It is not dangerous to divers.

Chinese trumpetfish (Aulostomus chinensis), a Red Sea fish of the trumpetfishes family
Photo: iNaturalist / Wikimedia Commons

Quick facts

Scientific nameAulostomus chinensis
FamilyTrumpetfishes (Aulostomidae)
Common name (IT)Pesce trombetta cinese
Common name (EN)Chinese trumpetfish
Maximum size60 cm
Depth1–50 m
DistributionRed Sea and Indo-Pacific
IUCN statusLC — Least Concern

Description

Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.

Where it lives

Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.

  • Red Sea
  • Indo-Pacific

Frequently asked questions

What family does the Chinese trumpetfish belong to?
The Chinese trumpetfish (Aulostomus chinensis) belongs to the family Aulostomidae (trumpetfishes).
Is the Chinese trumpetfish dangerous?
It is not dangerous to divers. As with any reef animal, do not touch or handle it.
Is the Chinese trumpetfish endemic to the Red Sea?
No — it occurs in the Red Sea but its range extends across the Indo-Pacific.
How big does the Chinese trumpetfish get?
It reaches a maximum length of about 60 cm.

Explore the Chinese trumpetfish in 3D in the interactive atlas →